Living in New York City, I am lucky to be able to eat at some of the best falafel joints outside of the Middle East. At both Taim (Israeli restaurant) and Mamoun’s (Syrian Restaurant) in Manhattan, Middle Eastern salads are a delightful staple of almost every falafel sandwich and veggie platter. Whenever I am in need of a crunchy, refreshing, and slightly tart side dish or topping, I turn to my Middle Eastern Salad.

My very simple and zesty Middle Eastern Salad recipe was influenced by my family and our love for Arab and Israeli food. The Middle Eastern Salad is a staple in our home. Perhaps, it found its way into Guatemalan cuisine from Middle Eastern immigrants who have been welcomed into Latin America. I’m not sure exactly how this lemony salad made its way into my family’s table; but, I am eternally grateful for it!